DoNe, the Rogue's notes

Homestead, evening.  3/25

   The ocean's 39F.  Coastal conditions are no better.  First day of spring was a week ago (just about).  I'm done with this snow.  Seriously.

    Brew time.  I know.  Perfect timing.  Sit back in front of the...well, no fireplace, but there's always surf videos.  Otter Creek Brewing's Kind Ryed.  A mature drinkers IPA. HAHA.  Ok that's what they called it.  I found it a smooth addition to Otter Creek/Wolaver's quiver.  A big East Coast American IPA designed to handle the foulest weather (like today).  Poured a cloudy burnt orange with a fluffy white two finger head.  Great carbination and lacing.  Peppery rye-malt notes were the yin to the yang of the citrus-pine explosion of four different hops. 60 IBUs worth.  Label credits brewmaster Mike Gerhart with this 6.5% ABV grade A brew.

 



     DuClaw...another one.  They're everywhere these days.  Cocoa Fuego.  A chocolate stout made for the transition from the cold.  Infused with chipotle peppers.  You really get the sting on your tongue from this delicious brew.  Pours a brownish-black with a thin brown head.  7.5% ABV is tempered by the warm aroma of expresso and silky taste of dark chocolate. The chipotle peppers actually enhance the sharp hoppiness (85 IBUs).  Nice way to quiet the roar of March.  Another A rating.

"Confront your fear. Master the pepper."